Hunt hails Wits’ character

RUSTENBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - AUGUST 25: Gavin Hunt during the MTN 8 1st Leg semi final match between Platinum Stars and Bidvest Wits from Royal Bafokeng Stadium on August 25, 2013 in Rustenburg, South Africa. (Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images)

Johannesburg – Wits coach Gavin Hunt says his team's 3-1 win over relegation candidates Polokwane City was as a result of character despite a second half scare.

Wits treated the fans to 3-goal first half show but took their foot off the gas in the second half and nearly gave away their advantage.

“Credit to them, they came to us and fought hard but we were well set,” said Hunt.

“In the first half we were good, we kept our shape nicely and did everything we had to. We got the goals we deserved but in the second half we got sloppy.”

Hunt said his team lost the tactical plan midway and nearly paid the penalty despite him warning them of a second half onslaught from the home team.

“I told them at halftime that Polokwane would be going a bit longer and we have to protect the first ball and secure the second ball but we didn't do it.”

A gutted Polokwane coach Boebie Solomons believed his players could have done better and also blamed the wet surface for the result.

“We allowed them to score two soft goals,” said Solomons.

“The rainy conditions affected my players a lot, they were slipping all over the show. Especially the first goal, they wrong-footed two of our players and they scored.”

City harassed Wits in the second half but poor finishing saw them fail to overturn the result.

“We didn't show enough fighting spirit in the first half but in the second half we were much better and all over them.

“If only we could play like we did the second half then we are going to get results.”

The loss sees Polokwane remain in the danger zone while Wits continue fighting for league honours and are now six points adrift of leaders Kaizer Chiefs. – Sapa